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Fines against utilities are victory for ratepayers

Sentinel & Enterprise

Updated:
12/14/2012 06:36:11 AM EST

The recent decision by the Department of Public Utilities to fine three of the largest investor-owned utilities in the commonwealth for their poor response to Tropical Storm Irene and the October 2011 snowstorm is clearly a significant victory for ratepayers throughout the commonwealth.

I must point out that due to the efforts of the North Worcester County legislative delegation after the ice storm of 2008, the legislation that we crafted sent a clear signal that utilities will be held accountable for their failures in preparing for and responding to major weather events. The legislation that provided the DPU with this penalty capability did not impact the ratepayers in the city of Fitchburg and Unitil's service area because, frankly, Unitil has markedly improved its response capability and enhanced its communications infrastructure.

The original legislation that resulted from the 2008 ice storm returned the utility fines to the state. However, as a member of the Joint Committee on Telecommunications, Utilities and Energy, I want to inform my constituents that this last session we passed legislation that states these penalties will be directly refunded to the ratepayers instead of being placed into the general fund.

This was a joint effort of your legislative delegation, and it demonstrates that government can work for the betterment of our citizens. Rest assured that together we will continue to strive to improve our utility effectiveness and responsiveness to their customers.

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